Watch Quartet for the End of Time

Quartet for the End of Time is a drama film from 2017 directed by Robert Clem, starring Karen Johnson, Patrick Morgan, and Charlaine Prescott. The movie follows the story of four strangers with a passion for music who come together to perform a famous piece of chamber music during the end of the world. The film is a beautiful exploration of the power of music to bring people together in the face of adversity and uncertainty.

The film begins with the four musicians meeting in a small, remote cabin in the woods. The world is about to end, and they have come together to perform Olivier Messiaen's Quartet for the End of Time, a piece of classical chamber music written during World War II. As they begin to rehearse, tensions arise between the different personalities and backgrounds of the musicians. Karen Johnson plays Sarah, a retired violinist who is struggling to come to terms with her failing health. Patrick Morgan plays John, a young, brash pianist with a chip on his shoulder. Charlaine Prescott plays Louise, a cellist who is desperately missing her family.

As the rehearsals progress, the musicians begin to open up to each other and form a bond. They share stories about their lives and their love for music, and gradually come to accept each other's differences. The quartet is symbolic of the different parts of life - birth, growth, struggle, and death - and the musicians come to understand that they are all necessary.

One of the main themes of the film is the power of music to connect people. The quartet brings the four musicians together, and as they perform, they are able to transcend the chaos and destruction of the outside world. The music becomes a source of hope and beauty for them, as well as for the small community of survivors who gather to listen.

Another theme of the film is the importance of legacy. The quartet is a piece of music that has survived for decades, and will continue to survive even after the end of the world. The musicians understand that they are part of a long tradition of musicians who have performed this piece, and that their performance will be remembered long after they are gone.

The acting in the film is excellent, with each of the three main actors bringing depth and nuance to their roles. Karen Johnson's portrayal of Sarah is particularly moving, as she struggles with the physical limitations of her illness while still trying to connect with the other musicians. Patrick Morgan's John is initially abrasive, but he gradually reveals a vulnerability and sensitivity that makes him more sympathetic. Charlaine Prescott's Louise is a steady presence, holding the quartet together with her calm demeanor and warmth.

The cinematography of the film is also noteworthy, with beautiful shots of the natural surroundings of the cabin and the surrounding wilderness. The use of light and shadow is particularly effective, creating a sense of intimacy and warmth during the rehearsal scenes.

Overall, Quartet for the End of Time is a poignant and thought-provoking film about the power of music to bring people together in times of crisis. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, even in the face of the most dire circumstances. The film is a must-see for music lovers and anyone who believes in the power of art to give meaning to life.

Quartet for the End of Time is a 2017 music movie with a runtime of 30 minutes.